Students and families gathered at East Grand Preparatory on Saturday, Sept. 13, for “Navigating Your Academic & Professional Future,” a morning of inspiration, learning and connection hosted in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation in Washington, DC.
The event, held from 9 a.m. to noon, offered free breakfast and interactive workshops for 5th–8th grade students and their parents. Participants explored career paths, discovered their strengths and learned from the academic journeys of Latino professionals.
Workshops focused on enhancing education and experience, while raffles and free child care for Cityscape Pre-K through 4th grade students helped make the event accessible for families.
Panelists Share Expertise
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring accomplished Latino leaders from diverse fields:
- Gilberto Atayde, Vice President of Operations at the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, shared insights on economic development and leadership. Atayde brings extensive experience from corporate operations and nonprofit advocacy, as well as board service across North Texas.
- Ana Cruz Hollingsworth, Emmy-winning journalist and founder of Rollos de Mujeres Media, inspired attendees with her story of resilience and success in media. She is also the host of the bilingual podcast Let’s Talk ROLLOS.
- Ray Casas, Senior Director of Community Impact for the Texas Rangers Baseball Club, discussed his decades-long career in public relations and his commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
- Marie Mendoza, Ph.D., Executive Director for Emergent Bilingual Programs at Fort Worth ISD, emphasized the importance of bilingual education and shared her journey through leadership roles in large urban school districts.
